Before me is a glass jar of beautiful old buttons – a gift from my mother. All are varying shades of brown from the different types of wood that they are made from. Some are large and round with centres that are grooved and high, others have intricate carved designs in the centre, still others are rectangular with designs drawn on one corner. My favourites however, are in the shape of sea horses – some large, some small and all made from coconut shell – a momento of her life on a Pacific Island. Then there are the tiny wooden fish and the faded painted tulip ones, and the leather covered ones.

All represent a moment in time to me – from her heritage and her life. In times of stress, it is a wonderful reminder of where we come from and what is important.
For your wedding, start collecting buttons that particularly catch your eye. You could look in dress fabric shops, craft stores, and your local markets. There may even be a second hand unappealing dress with amazing buttons that you could cut off to start your collection. Mums and aunts might have button jars hidden away or you might find some in an ‘Op shop’.

They could be in the colour you envisage for your reception, they could be appealing shapes or made from materials that capture your imagination. You could use them to embellish your favour boxes, incorporate them into your dresses as a feature on a belt, or pleating, or using them in a headpiece.

Cufflinks fastening a cuff on a shirt look elegant and ‘put together. Even with a more casual outfit of a lighter coloured suit, they will give you the finishing touch you’re after. Here are some interesting ones we have found!

Bridal Survival ™ specialises in providing products that alleviate the stress often associated with planning
a wedding. We aim to provide a range of high quality products to help you out in wedding emergencies,
to provide a sanctuary, to soothe the soul and to make your wedding wonderful.